Tag: food

The best WordPress plugins to improve your food blog

The best WordPress plugins to improve your food blog

WordPress is the most famous and popular blogging platform. The platform is so popular that it’s believed that out of 1.3 billion websites on the web, WordPress powers more than 455 million sites, a fact that’s astonishing.

Users love WordPress because it’s a powerful platform that is reliable and offers endless customisation options. WordPress is an excellent platform for your blog if you’re a food blogger. Not only because it’s the best blogging platform but also because it offers countless plugins that will transform your ordinary food blog into perfection. The best part is that WordPress’s CMS is super user-friendly, so it will be super simple to manage your food blog and make it successful.

WordPress offers more than 58,000 free plugins for bloggers. It also offers thousands of plugins that cost additional money, but we guarantee you’ll find a useful plugin among the 58,000 you can use free of any charge. Before you start your food blogging journey, it’s important to remember that you first need to find a reliable web host. There are many web hosting companies on the internet, so research before you decide on one. Since you’ll be working with WordPress, the best thing you can do is choose a web host that offers WordPress hosting. To choose the best web host for your food blog, read as many reviews as possible on the Internet. For instance, HostAdvice offers countless valuable reviews, where you can find excellent information about web hosting companies that offer WordPress hosting, such as the Kinsta review; feel free to learn more about the web hosting companies that offer excellent WordPress hosting plans.

The best plugins for food blogs

As we already mentioned above, WordPress offers more than 58,000 free plugins. WordPress is the best platform to start your food blog, so make sure you get the most out of the platform by using some of the best plugins. Let’s see what the best WordPress plugins that will help you improve and transform your food blog are.

WordPress recipe plugins

There’s nothing better than adding food recipes in an instant. WordPress offers excellent recipe plugins that will make the job easy for you. The plugins will help you create recipes faster and easier, optimise your recipes for better SEO and improve the overall user experience thanks to the design and formatting.
Two of the best WordPress recipe plugins include:

  • Delicious Recipes for WordPress: a plugin that enables you to collect recipes from people visiting your blog. To increase your blog’s revenue, you can add an affiliate link directly to the recipe. The plugin also has an analytic dashboard that will help you track the progress of the recipes and discover which recipes are popular among your visitors.
  • WordPress Recipe Maker: this plugin is the most popular among food bloggers. There is a free version, but you need to pay for the premium plugin you can buy. The premium version will enable you to insert Amazon links, access the nutrition database, etc.

Yoast SEO

Whether you have a food blog, an eCommerce store, or a small business website, SEO is important. Yoast SEO is something you must download right now to make your food blog successful and attract more traffic. The plugin will give you anything you might need for SEO optimisation. Yoast SEO has incredible features, including on-page SEO analytics, readability analysis, built-in sitemap generator, snippet preview and editor. The plugin integrates with your WordPress editor and will maximise the SEO of your content as you work.

Social Snap

Social media can be crucial for success, so you must start using SocialSnap. The plugin will enable you to embed social sharing buttons on more than 30 social networks, and the best part is that it is super user-friendly. The SocialSnap includes an image sharer, creative display options, advanced customisation options, share counters, social meta tags etc.

ShortPixel Image Optimizer

ShortPixel is one of the most popular WordPress plugins among bloggers. This plugin is popular because it reduces the size of the images in a post and boosts site speed. The best part is that the image quality doesn’t get compromised. ShortPixel has recommended settings during the installation, but you can also configure the images to properly meet your needs.

Akismet

As your food blog grows and attracts more visitors, the number of spammers will also increase. To filter out spam, you will need Akismet, the plugin that monitors comment submissions. To start using the plugin, you first need to download it, create an account and then paste the API key generated for you. You also have the option to choose Akismet’s level of strictness when handling spam: keep the spam in a spam folder or get the spam deleted immediately. Akismet is popular because it has excellent features such as account spam statistics and the option to display privacy notices. The plugin is free, but a Plus or Enterprise plugin also has extra features.

Conclusion

Starting a food blog and making it successful is not easy. The reality is that the competition is tough, and you need to work extra hard to make your blog stand out from the crowd. Luckily, the WordPress plugins can help impact the food world and create a unique food blog that people will love coming back to.

[disclosure*]

Price Points: Argentine asado grills

Argentine asado grills

One of the lots that we featured on a recent Auction Alert post was an Argentine barbecue. Someone got themselves a great deal; it sold for £200.00… a lot less than the estimate.

Barbecues, known as asados in Argentina and other South American countries, are cooked on grills called parrillas. Over here, we refer to them as asado grills.

We had a look at the range of asado grills available online, and like any other type of cooking kit, they’re available in a wide range of prices. The ‘basic’ model, to me, doesn’t really come across as an asado – it’s a barbecue. The ‘better’ example, with its oil drum design, is known as a chulengo. This would be my choice, as it keeps the meat and the vegetables well apart during cooking… always my worry at a BBQ. The ‘luxury’ option is a crazy price; aimed at lottery winners, Premiership footballers and professional asado restaurants and caterers. It’s beautiful though!

  1. Asado uBer-Q barbecue, rotisserie, grill plate and carry bag: £169.99, Lakeland

    The stainless steel dual grill plate has air holes on one half, as well as a solid half for frying, so you can cook and fry multiple items at the same time without needing a separate pan. There’s also a powerful rotisserie motor, which is easily hooked onto one end of the barbecue, and drives either the spit forks for cooking larger pieces of meat, or the kebab accessory, which can cook up to six kebabs at a time. And with a choice between loose charcoal or an instant barbecue cartridge, there are a number of ways to fuel it too.
    • Portable and versatile barbecue
    • Stainless steel dual cooking pan
    • Two rotisserie functions
    • Folds flat to fit into a handy carry bag
    • Takes loose coals or instant BBQ cartridge
    • 55 x 35 x 45cm H.
    • Lakeland 3 year guarantee included

  2. Asado Argentine style Santa Maria double barrel charcoal grill: £650.00, eBay

    The Double Barrel Grill has 2 separate grilling racks which can be raised & lowered over the fire by two separate round wheeled hand cranks. This means a variety of different food items can be cooked at different temperatures, but all at the same time. It also means that veggie food can be cooked on a completely different grill. Whether it’s cooking at home or for a large gathering, the double barrel won’t disappoint. All components are removable and the stand is collapsible making it easy to clean and transport.
    The racks and the stand are manufactured from 3mm steel and will last a lifetime. The barrel is a classic 45 gallon drum which over time is cheap and easy to replace. The grill also comes with 2 separate coal grates.

    The Double Barrel Grill consists of:
    • 2 x racks
    • 2 x coal grates
    • 1 x 45 gallon drum
    • 1 x collapsible stand

    Overall dimensions: W 1020mm x D 720mm x H 1420mm

  3. BM G-5 Plus dual Argentine grill: £6,980.00 (ex VAT)

    It consists of two independent barbecues with V-shaped cooking grates and above fitted warming/resting shelves which height level are controlled by two large independent crank wheels(made in stainless steel) allow the chef to adjust the height of the cooking surface with the rise and fall of the flames. Stainless Steel V-Channels slanted at 4 degrees capture juices for basting and sauce preparation. The fuel drawers(baskets) for charcoal or wood fitted under the cooking grates, can pull out the drawer when the firebox door open for easy to fill up more coals. etc. Underneath of the fuel drawer mounted removable ash catchers (ash trays) for easy cleaning. Firebox door equipped with adjustable air dampers(vents) to increase or decrease heat in the barbecue.
    The BMS-5 PLUS also equipped with the brasero (wood burner, amber maker), where the embers can be distributed into one or the other fuel drawer (right or left) via embers catching tray which leans against the fuel drawers. Asado style cooking (large pieces of meat) also available at the front of brasero (wood burner) on the spits (provided) with adjustable height and distance positions against the fire.
    The Grill mounted on the heavy duty stand made of 50mm square tubing, two removable stainless steel shelves at the bottom and heavy duty braked casters wheels.
    There are many other features included such as the front shelves, side bars for hanging tools and sauce pans, etc., gastronorm pan with the lid in between two cooking areas to keep food warm or use as a fat catcher while cooking something on the spits above, also included BBQ tools (grate scrappers and ash pokers), fat catching trays at the front of the cooking grates, etc.
    Argentine Grills are designed to allow close temperature control during grilling, also channel fat away from the fire to a drip pan preventing flareups which damage the flavour of meat. Low and slow cooking, or a quick burning sear, is all up to you, because you’re in complete control with the ability to raise and lower the grilling surface with a simple rotation of the grill crank wheel. Argentine Grills can be used with charcoal or wood. Wood offers the best flavour to grilled meats. It also provides optimal heat that lasts longer than charcoal.
    Overall dimensions: 214cm wide, 190cm height and 96cm depth.
    The unit weight is 700kg

shop Argentine asado grills

Some of the links on our blog are affiliate links. We may receive a small commission - at no cost to you - if you click through and make a purchase.
Prices & links correct at time of publication.

BM G-5 Plus dual Argentine grill
BM G-5 Plus dual Argentine grill
£6,980.00 (ex VAT)
Asado Argentine style Santa Maria double barrel charcoal grill
Asado Argentine style Santa Maria double barrel charcoal grill
£650.00
Asado uBer-Q barbecue, rotisserie, grill plate and carry bag
Asado uBer-Q barbecue, rotisserie, grill plate and carry bag
£169.99
BM G-5 Plus dual Argentine grill
BM G-5 Plus dual Argentine grill
£6,980.00 (ex VAT)
Asado Argentine style Santa Maria double barrel charcoal grill
Asado Argentine style Santa Maria double barrel charcoal grill
£650.00
Asado uBer-Q barbecue, rotisserie, grill plate and carry bag
Asado uBer-Q barbecue, rotisserie, grill plate and carry bag
£169.99
BM G-5 Plus dual Argentine grill
BM G-5 Plus dual Argentine grill
£6,980.00 (ex VAT)
Asado Argentine style Santa Maria double barrel charcoal grill
Asado Argentine style Santa Maria double barrel charcoal grill
£650.00
Asado uBer-Q barbecue, rotisserie, grill plate and carry bag
Asado uBer-Q barbecue, rotisserie, grill plate and carry bag
£169.99
BM G-5 Plus dual Argentine grill
BM G-5 Plus dual Argentine grill
£6,980.00 (ex VAT)
Asado Argentine style Santa Maria double barrel charcoal grill
Asado Argentine style Santa Maria double barrel charcoal grill
£650.00
Asado uBer-Q barbecue, rotisserie, grill plate and carry bag
Asado uBer-Q barbecue, rotisserie, grill plate and carry bag
£169.99
BM G-5 Plus dual Argentine grill
BM G-5 Plus dual Argentine grill
£6,980.00 (ex VAT)
Asado Argentine style Santa Maria double barrel charcoal grill
Asado Argentine style Santa Maria double barrel charcoal grill
£650.00
Asado uBer-Q barbecue, rotisserie, grill plate and carry bag
Asado uBer-Q barbecue, rotisserie, grill plate and carry bag
£169.99

Price Points: Fermentation jars

Fermentation jars

We’ve bought kimchi online a few times – we both like it a lot. Our local supermarkets don’t seem to stock it.  We like to add a spoonful or two to fried rice and stir fries. We’re nearly at the end of another jar, so I thought I might try to make some. I found a great vegetarian kimchi recipe online and looked into different fermentation jars.

Each of the jars that I’ve short-listed has an automatic release valve. This ensures that the gas created doesn’t build up and – woe betide – cause the contents or jar itself to explode on opening.

I decided on the 2 x 1-litre Kilner jars. The volume of each jar is smaller than the other examples; there are only two of us in this house, it would take us ages to eat that much kimchi. Also, as there are two jars, I could put the kimchi in one and try my hand at making sauerkraut for the other!

  1. Lakeland fermentation jar with air-release valve 1.4L: £9.99, Lakeland
  2. Kilner set of 2 fermentation 1 litre jars: £20.00, Dunelm
  3. Kefirko 1.4L veggie fermentation kit: £34.99, Kefirko

shop fermentation jars

Some of the links on our blog are affiliate links. We may receive a small commission - at no cost to you - if you click through and make a purchase.
Prices & links correct at time of publication.

Kefirko veggie fermentation kit
Kefirko veggie fermentation kit
£34.99
Kilner set of 2 fermentation 1 litre jars
Kilner set of 2 fermentation 1 litre jars
£20.00
Lakeland fermentation jar with air-release valve 1.4L
Lakeland fermentation jar with air-release valve 1.4L
£9.99
Kefirko veggie fermentation kit
Kefirko veggie fermentation kit
£34.99
Kilner set of 2 fermentation 1 litre jars
Kilner set of 2 fermentation 1 litre jars
£20.00
Lakeland fermentation jar with air-release valve 1.4L
Lakeland fermentation jar with air-release valve 1.4L
£9.99
Kefirko veggie fermentation kit
Kefirko veggie fermentation kit
£34.99
Kilner set of 2 fermentation 1 litre jars
Kilner set of 2 fermentation 1 litre jars
£20.00
Lakeland fermentation jar with air-release valve 1.4L
Lakeland fermentation jar with air-release valve 1.4L
£9.99
Kefirko veggie fermentation kit
Kefirko veggie fermentation kit
£34.99
Kilner set of 2 fermentation 1 litre jars
Kilner set of 2 fermentation 1 litre jars
£20.00
Lakeland fermentation jar with air-release valve 1.4L
Lakeland fermentation jar with air-release valve 1.4L
£9.99
Kefirko veggie fermentation kit
Kefirko veggie fermentation kit
£34.99
Kilner set of 2 fermentation 1 litre jars
Kilner set of 2 fermentation 1 litre jars
£20.00
Lakeland fermentation jar with air-release valve 1.4L
Lakeland fermentation jar with air-release valve 1.4L
£9.99

Food and drink ideas for a mixture of guests

Food and drink ideas for a mixture of guests

One of the hardest things about hosting a dinner for someone you don’t know well is deciding what to serve. It’s hard because different people might have a range of food allergies, dietary restrictions and taste preferences.

It’s time-consuming to do your research ahead of time when you’re trying to make last-minute dinner arrangements! Plus, it can be awkward if one loves vegetables and another hates them, or one prefers a Non-Alcoholic Rose for their drink and someone else insists on a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon. That’s why we’ve put together this post with some food and drink ideas you could serve when you have mixed company over for dinner.

Some of these dishes we’ve listed can be cooked in advance, so if you’re not the best cook, then you can leave it in the hands of your other half to prepare some of the food. If you go down this route, it may pay to have a few things available for people to nibble on while they’re waiting for dinner – crostini with pesto or hummus is perfect for this.

Some of the recipes are for dishes that don’t need to be cooked; but also, feel free to prepare others ahead of time.

1. Roast chicken and vegetables

Roast chicken and vegetables can be made in advance. You can even make them throughout the day, reserving the leftover cooking liquid to use in a soup or stew the following evening. Remove any skin or bones and cut them into pieces before serving. This, paired with a good wine, makes a delicious meal to serve your guests.

2. Garlic bread

This is a simple, easy dish to make for any meal, but it also lends itself well to being prepared in advance. You can put your bread under the grill with some olive oil and garlic cloves, or if you’re feeling super fancy, you can use a special garlic bread recipe!

3. Roasted garlic and herb potatoes

These potatoes are great as a side dish, or you can keep them on hand to pop in the oven and make mashed potatoes. You can also use them as a base for a quick soup! If you don’t want to be bothered with cooking the potatoes, you can buy pre-cooked ‘ready roasted’ ones at most supermarkets.

4. Brown rice and mung bean curry

This dish can be cooked in advance, so if you’re trying to keep things simple and have limited cooking time, this is a good choice. It’s also hearty enough to be served as a main course without being too heavy. You can even prepare it in advance, meaning you don’t have to worry about it while your other half is cooking the main course!

5. Feta and spinach strudel

This is an enjoyable dish to make as you can use different types of pastry. I’ve also seen versions that use filo pastry or tortillas. Make sure you cover it with something to stop the pastry from becoming soggy. I recommend tin foil or parchment paper. You can make this ahead of time, but you may have to reheat it in the oven before serving.

Some of the drinks you can serve with these:

a. Lemonade

Lemonade is an easy drink to make ahead of time, and you can use any fruit you like in it. It’s also an excellent drink for kids to make because it’s easy to prepare and tastes delicious!

b. Minted water

This is a refreshing and healthy drink that’s a nice alternative to plain water! Plus, it’s an easy recipe to make ahead of time, so there’s no need to worry about cooking water or waiting for the kettle.

c. Chai-spiced iced coffee

If you’re a fan of chai tea, this is a simple recipe for making it at home. You just need to make up your chai tea in advance and when you’re ready to serve it, just add the ice cubes!

d. Apple cider

This is another drink that can be prepared in advance. You can buy cider (or apple juice) in bottles or cartons, and once you’ve opened it, you’re good to go. You can also add spices such as cinnamon or vanilla extract to flavour it.

e. Rosewater water

This is a wonderful drink for hot summer days! It’s also lovely served with a slice of pomegranate in the warmer months – the rosewater and fruit go well together.

There are lots of different things you can serve in different combinations for a mixed company dinner. And all you have to do is make sure that your food is sufficiently warmed if you’re serving it as finger food!

[disclosure*]